A Simple Guide to Pterygium

A Simple Guide to Pterygium
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What is Pterygium?
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Pterygium is a fleshy tissue that grows in on the inner corner of the eye
towards the pupil.

It may also appear on the outer corner.

It is usually triangular in shape.


Who is affected by Pterygium?
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Pterygium is more common in people who spend time outdoors than indoor

What is the Cause of Pterygium?
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The exact cause of Pterygium is not known.

1. Long-term exposure to sunlight, especially ultraviolet (UV) rays

2. chronic eye irritation

3. dusty conditions

4. dry eye may contribute to pterygium as well.



What are the Symptoms and signs of Pterygium?
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Symptoms varies from mild to severe:

1.discomfort in the eye

2.Conjunctival congestion

3.Tearing -excess tears from irritation

Signs:

1.fleshy growth on the conjunctiva on inner side of eye growing towards pupils

2.increased dilated blood vessels in the fleshy growth


How do you make the Diagnosis of Pterygium?
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The presence of fleshy growth with blood vessels on the conjunctiva on inner side of eye growing towards pupils


What are the complications of Pterygium?
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1.Partial blindness if the pterygium covers the cornea

2.Recurrent irritation and conjunctivitis of eyes.

3.Severe infection of the eye - rare

What is the treatment of Pterygium?
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Treatment depends on the severity:

1.Mild:

Eye drops with anti congestion and anti-inflammatory properties may shrink the blood vessels which provide nourishment for the growth of the pterygium.

2.Severe:

Once the pterygium reaches the cornea and may cover the cornea, surgical resection of the pterygium may be necessary otherwise the eye sight may be compromised.

Surgical resection may also be done if the pterygium is unsightly.

What is the prognosis of Pterygium?
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The prognosis is usually good.

Recurrence is rare but do occur due to regrowth of the blood vessel supplying the pterygium.

This occurs more in younger people.

How is pterygium prevented?
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Wearing UV protective sunglasses

Avoid dry and dusty conditions

Use of artificial tear eye drops